Former NBA center Oliver Miller, who played for six teams in career that spanned nine seasons, has died, the National Basketball Retired Players Association confirmed Wednesday. He was 54 years old.
Phoenix Suns broadcaster Eddie Johnson first reported Miller’s death.
“I am so sad to report we have lost another @NBA Fraternity member! Nine year veteran Oliver Miller has passed away at age 54! Going to miss you Big O. RIP,” Johnson posted on social media.
I am so sad to report we have lost another @NBA Fraternity member! Nine year veteran Oliver Miller has passed away at age 54! Going to miss you Big O. 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿. RIP
— Eddie A Johnson (@Jumpshot8) March 12, 2025
A standout performer at Arkansas, Miller went on to be the No. 22 overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, where he was a key to the Suns’ run to the NBA Finals in 1993, averaging 7.2 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.5 blocks over 24 playoff games.
His best season came in 1995-96 when he averaged 12.9 points and 7.4 assists with the Raptors in Toronto’s first season, playing 76 games. Miller also played for the Pistons (1994-95), Mavericks (1996-97), Kings (1998-99) and Timberwolves (2003-04).
Miller also played in Greece, Italy and Poland, as well as in the CBA, with the Harlem Globetrotters and with the short-lived USBL.
Miller finished his NBA career averaging 7.4 points on .534 shooting, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks.
The basketball community has lost a Legend. Our hearts are with the family, friends and fans of Oliver Miller.#LegendsForever pic.twitter.com/ip6Ri1DHBh
— NBA Alumni 🏀 (@NBAalumni) March 12, 2025
Rest in Peace, Big O 💜🧡 pic.twitter.com/Yxie4cGGd5
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) March 12, 2025
The Toronto Raptors are saddened to learn of the passing of Oliver Miller, who spent three seasons with our organization. He holds a special place in our history as a member of our inaugural team in 1995, and we are so grateful for all his contributions. We send our deepest… pic.twitter.com/h6lUpoA6Uh
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) March 12, 2025
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Arkansas legend Oliver Miller. A key member of the 1990 Final Four team, an SWC Hall of Famer, a first round NBA draft pick and a true embodiment of the Razorback spirit.
We love you Big O. Our thoughts are with his family. 🐗❤️ pic.twitter.com/7b7eIvyM0T
— Arkansas Razorbacks Men’s Basketball 🐗 (@RazorbackMBB) March 12, 2025
